*Disclaimer: I’m not a man.

This. Does he also like YOU or just the attention you give? Because if it’s not you, one day he’ll find someone he likes and leave you to pursue them. I like when people I’m interested in keep in touch frequently, but I would never word it as “I like you BECAUSE you give me attention.”

I think if you had to ask you already know the answer. He’s stating in not so many words that he likes feeling desired. It’s an ego boost in his offseason. I say run.